Reconnect with Roots: A Family Adventure in La Digue

A Day of Island Delights

Today on La Digue felt like stepping deeper into a dream. The kind of dream where the air is thick with the scent of spices, and the landscapes are painted with vibrant greens and blues. It was a day dedicated to exploring the island's natural beauty and savoring its unique flavors, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Skychef Shop. It's conveniently located and seems to be a popular spot. The air was filled with anticipation as we planned our day over coffee and pastries. Hans, ever the planner, was eager to stick to the itinerary, while I was happy to simply soak in the island vibes.

Our first stop was the Vanille-Plantagen. As someone who grew up in the Seychelles, I've always been familiar with vanilla, but seeing it cultivated on such a scale was a new experience. The air hung heavy with the sweet, almost intoxicating fragrance of vanilla. Rows upon rows of vanilla vines stretched out before us, a testament to the care and dedication of the local farmers. It was fascinating to learn about the intricate process of vanilla cultivation, from the delicate hand-pollination of the orchids to the careful curing of the beans. I was hoping to see some flowers, but unfortunately there weren't any during my visit. Still, seeing the vanilla plants organized in rows was quite impressive.


Discover the enchanting world of vanilla at Vanille-Plantagen, a captivating tourist attraction on La Digue, Seychelles, featuring lush plantations and rich cultural insights.

"Sometimes, the most profound connections are found in the simplest of moments, amidst the beauty of nature and the sharing of a meal."

After our fragrant adventure at the Vanille-Plantagen, we decided to explore one of La Digue's more secluded beaches: Anse aux Cedres. The walk there was an adventure in itself. The path wound through lush coastal vegetation, with the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean peeking through the trees. We were headed south from the main village, following the coastline towards Anse La Reunion. The signs made it relatively easy to find the path leading west towards Anse aux Cedres. I'll admit, the Seychelles sun can be intense, and I was kicking myself for forgetting to pack insect repellent – those mosquitos are relentless! Hans, ever the prepared one, shared his, earning him major brownie points.


Experience the serene paradise of Anse aux Cedres in Seychelles, where pristine beaches and lush landscapes await every traveler.

The hike was a bit challenging but so worth it. The trail was well-trodden, offering stunning views of the ocean. Apparently, it's about an hour's walk from the village. The beach itself was a revelation. Secluded and serene, with powdery white sand and crystal-clear water, it felt like we had discovered our own private paradise. We spent hours swimming, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. It was the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

For lunch, we stopped at BAO. I had heard great things about their local cuisine, and it did not disappoint. We indulged in a variety of Creole dishes, bursting with flavor and spice. I tried the grilled fish with Creole sauce, while Hans opted for the octopus curry. Both were delicious, a true celebration of Seychellois culinary heritage. Eating there, surrounded by the sounds of Creole being spoken, made me feel right at home.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at BAO in Providence—where every dish tells a story through its rich flavors.

After lunch, we did a bit of shopping at Nassim Al-Safsaf Est. I wanted to pick up some souvenirs for my friends back in Bonn, and this little shop had a great selection of local crafts and artwork. I found a beautiful hand-painted silk scarf and a set of carved wooden figurines, perfect reminders of our time on La Digue.


Discover unique home goods and authentic souvenirs at Nassim Al-Safsaf Est., where local craftsmanship meets charming design.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the island, we made our way to Marie Antoinette for dinner. This restaurant is an institution on La Digue, known for its authentic Creole cuisine and charming atmosphere. It's actually located on Mahé, not La Digue, but it was still a great experience. The building itself is a piece of history, a beautifully preserved colonial house that exudes old-world charm. The menu is a set affair, featuring a variety of traditional Seychellois dishes. We sampled everything from grilled fish and curried chicken to lentil stew and breadfruit chips. It was a feast for the senses, a true taste of Seychellois culture. Hans even braved the fruit bat curry, a local delicacy. He said it tasted a bit like pigeon, a red meat with a fruity flavor. As for me, I think I'll stick to the seafood.


Experience authentic Seychellois cuisine at Marie Antoinette in Saint Louis—where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

Marie Antoinette is known as one of the top restaurants offering authentic Creole cuisine. The restaurant has earned a Certificate of Excellence for its quality of reviews and opinions. It's a one-stop place to try Creole food and offers a real Creole dining experience. It's considered a must-try restaurant and one of the top 10 best places in Seychelles.

Reflecting on the day, as we walked back to our guesthouse under a canopy of stars, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with my roots and share this beautiful island with Hans. It was a day filled with simple pleasures, natural beauty, and delicious food, a true celebration of the Seychellois way of life.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Ile au Cerf and the Immaculate Conception church. I'm particularly excited about Ile au Cerf; I've heard the snorkeling there is incredible, and I can't wait to explore the underwater world. I am also looking forward to visiting Next Level Bar Lounge and Entertainment. It will be a nice way to unwind after a day of exploring.

La Digue continues to enchant me with its laid-back charm and breathtaking beauty. It's a place where time seems to slow down, and the simple things in life take on a new significance. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I'm starting to think about what I should get my family as souvenirs. I hope I find something special!